Established in 1887, the town of Cornelia is tucked between Tiger and Tallulah Gorge. It was once at the crossroads of a stagecoach route known for its robberies. Baseball legend Ty Cobb, who was born in nearby Royston, retired in the town. It's home to the Big Red Apple Monument, the largest of its kind in the nation, that is celebrated with an annual festival at the old … [Read more...] about Small Town Saturday: Cornelia, GA
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Small Town Saturday: Ocean Springs, MS
The town of Ocean Springs, Mississippi was settled along the Gulf Coast in the late 1600s, but wasn't incorporated until 1843. Also a part of French Louisiana, a resort town was established because the water was believed to have healing properties. Seafood has served as the main industry since the town's early days and continues today. Much of the town was completely destroyed … [Read more...] about Small Town Saturday: Ocean Springs, MS
Small Town Saturday: Port Gibson, MS
Settled in 1803, Port Gibson, Mississippi is located along the Mississippi River and was a part of French Louisiana. Cotton plantations were a large part of the economy. Part of the Civil War's Vicksburg Campaign took place here, resulting in 200 deaths. But because many of the buildings were left intact, it's nicknamed the "town too beautiful to burn." The Rabbit's Foot … [Read more...] about Small Town Saturday: Port Gibson, MS
Small Town Saturday: Guntersville, AL
Named for founder John Gunter, the town originally known as Gunter's Landing was settled in 1848. John Gunter was the wealthy owner of a salt mine and married a local Cherokee woman to solidify his land holdings. Many of the local residents worked for the nearby cotton mill. The town now has less than 10,000 residents and brings in fishermen for Lake Guntersville. Interested … [Read more...] about Small Town Saturday: Guntersville, AL
Small Town Saturday: Fort Payne, AL
Founded in the 1800s, the area now known as Fort Payne was home to a thriving Cherokee community until their removal. The town was named for Major Payne, who built the internment camp for the Native Americans. The completion of rail lines between Birmingham and Chattanooga increased the population. The band Alabama hails from Fort Payne and a number of attractions are centered … [Read more...] about Small Town Saturday: Fort Payne, AL